Eighteen young adults have been selected for Albany’s first Cap City Collective, a group that will advise on city policies and identify challenges facing younger residents, according to the city.
Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs and Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero announced the members Oct. 13. Nearly 100 people applied for the group, which has a seat for each of Albany’s 15 wards and three representatives from local higher education institutions.
Members will work with the mayor’s office, Romero’s office and community partners on issues involving civic participation, economic mobility and quality of life. Their terms last one year, and they may apply for another term.
The city said the group held its first meeting at Albany Center Gallery after the announcement. Mayoral Fellow Sean Millington will coordinate its meetings and activities and connect members with city leadership, working in partnership with Romero’s office.
First announced in July, the initiative is intended to expand civic participation and help Albany retain young residents. Romero secured $20,000 in state funding for its launch and operations.
The city said members were chosen through a joint application process that emphasized varied experiences and perspectives. The group includes state workers, social workers, students, people seeking employment, homeowners, renters and parents.
The ward representatives are Eukya Watson, Ward 1; Luca Rallis, Ward 2; Janay Salter, Ward 3; Amanda Rózsavölgyi, Ward 4; and Alyssa Gutierrez, Ward 5.
Representing the next five wards are Andrew Gardner, Ward 6; Nyra Lowes-Alexander, Ward 7; Dan O'Connell, Ward 8; Edith De Rosa Purcell, Ward 9; and Kelli Williams, Ward 10.
The remaining ward members are Ariadna Fuentes, Ward 11; Raymond Weiss, Ward 12; Alexis Jones, Ward 13; Anna Boughtwood, Ward 14; and Lindsey Drew, Ward 15.
Frederick Anson, Troy Serao and Tamera Thomas are the college representatives.